和泉 大樹（Daiki Izumi）

economy

The extraordinary box office appeal and impact on the film industry demonstrated by the theatrical release of *Detective Conan: The Fallen Angel of the Highway*

The theatrical release of “Detective Conan: The Fallen Angel of the Highway” surpassed 1.1 billion yen in box office revenue and drew 730,000 viewers on its opening day! It recorded the series’ best-ever opening, with a 107% increase over the previous year. We bring you a detailed report on the power of Japanese animation and the excitement surrounding this latest installment—a feat that even guest voice actor Ryusei Yokohama found astonishing.
2026.04.12
Japanese Animeeconomy
Pension・iDeCo

Guide to DC and DB Pensions: Explaining When to Start Receiving Benefits and the Duration of Benefits

When can you start receiving payments from a DC (Defined Contribution Pension) or DB (Defined Benefit Corporate Pension), and how long will they last? This article provides a clear explanation of the start dates for iDeCo, corporate DC, and DB plans (ages 60–75), the payment periods ranging from 5 to 20 years, and how lifetime annuities work. To plan for your retirement, start by fully understanding the rules of the plan you’re enrolled in.
2026.04.10
Pension・iDeCo
economy

[Household Expenditure Survey] February Consumer Spending Down 1.8% in Real Terms; Third Consecutive Month of Decline Highlights Weakness in Personal Consumption | Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (2026)

According to the Household Expenditure Survey for February 2026, consumer spending fell by 1.8%. This marks the third consecutive month of decline, highlighting the current situation where wage increases are failing to keep pace with rising prices. While experts predict a recovery starting this spring, is there a disconnect with how ordinary people actually feel? We examine the real-world trends of households adopting a more defensive stance and discuss key points to watch moving forward.
2026.04.07
economy
Japanese News

Lawson’s “Karaage-kun” has been recognized by Guinness World Records! It earned the title of “world’s best” on the 40th anniversary of its launch.

Lawson’s “Karaage-kun” has been recognized by Guinness World Records™ for selling over 280 million servings annually! Celebrating its 40th anniversary since its launch in 1986, cumulative sales have surpassed 4.8 billion servings. Starting April 7, a 40th-anniversary “Black Pepper” flavor and limited-edition character merchandise will be available. Check out the history of this globally recognized long-running favorite and the latest updates!
2026.04.06
Japanese News
Psychology for the Workplace

Isn’t There Just One Right Answer for Leadership? How to Build the “Ideal Team” Using PM Theory

Exploring the Four Leadership Types Based on PM Theory! We’ll derive the ideal leadership model by examining the balance between the P function (goal achievement) and the M function (group maintenance), as proposed by Fuji Misumi. We’ll also discuss the psychological reasons why unrealistic deadlines can actually strengthen team bonds, as well as strategies for addressing “mental saturation” during repetitive tasks.
2026.04.06
Psychology for the Workplace
Social Insurance

Explanation of Social Insurance Rules for Part-Time and Temporary Workers | Standards for Fiscal Year 2026

[2026 Edition] A Comprehensive Guide to Social Insurance Eligibility Requirements for Part-Time and Casual Workers. This guide covers all the new standards applicable to companies with 51 or more employees—such as working 20 or more hours per week and earning 88,000 yen or more per month—as well as the rules governing employment insurance. It also clearly explains the benefits of enrollment, including comparisons with National Pension premiums (17,060 yen per month), sickness allowance, and future pension supplements.
2026.04.05
Social Insurance
economy

List of Price Increases in April 2026 | How Will Food, Electricity Bills, and Pensions Change? Tips for Protecting Your Household Budget

April 2026 marks the return of “Price Hike Season.” With monthly costs expected to rise by as much as 5,000 yen, how should we prepare? In addition to the latest updates on soaring electricity bills and rising food prices, experts will share tips on how to protect your household budget—including strategies for cutting fixed expenses and making the most of private-label products—to help you manage your finances wisely.
2026.04.02
economy
Japanese News

[April 1, 2026] Today’s Top News Roundup | Nikkei Average Breaks Through 53,000 Mark as New System Takes Effect

A roundup of key news from April 1, 2026. The Nikkei Stock Average has surpassed 53,000 yen, setting a new all-time high! We provide a detailed breakdown of the day’s developments, from new policies such as the “In-Service Old-Age Pension” and “Child-Rearing Support Allowance” that took effect today, to breaking news on the Japan national soccer team’s match against England.
2026.04.01
Japanese News
Social Insurance

Why Pay Raises Don’t Mean Higher Take-Home Pay: The True Nature of This Despair | The Trap of “Invisible Labor Costs” Known as Social Insurance Premiums

Why do employees feel that their take-home pay hasn’t increased even after a pay raise? The reason lies in the rising burden of “social insurance premiums,” which account for approximately 15% of labor costs. This article provides a thorough explanation of how employer and employee contributions work. We’ll also detail the risks posed by statutory welfare costs that strain business operations, as well as strategic measures to maximize take-home pay.
2026.03.31
Social Insurance
Japanese News

Top News for March 29, 2026: Massive Investments in Next-Generation AI and Major Topics Highlighting Spring in Japan

A roundup of the top news stories from March 29, 2026. From SoftBank’s massive 6 trillion yen investment in OpenAI and the dramatic results of the F1 Japanese Grand Prix qualifying session to information on cherry blossom viewing spots across the country now in full bloom, we provide clear explanations of today’s key topics, covering everything from business to leisure.
2026.03.29
Japanese News
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